Country music’s best-selling performer has been in semi-retirement as he raises his daughters in Oklahoma. He’ll have another girl around the house now. August was the second to graduate from high school and Brooks says he’s considering a full-time return to recording and performing when his youngest, Allie, graduates from high school next year.

“Our children’s lives have always been extremely private and they have been endlessly encouraged to be their own people,” he said in the statement. “We have always wanted them to be individuals and not be known as ‘someone’s daughters.

“I have been amazed and grateful how the press has always respected this. I now ask that respect to please continue as this young family begins the greatest days of their lives.”